From Chair to CEO
Ready to build a beauty business that doesn't just look successful—but actually feels aligned, profitable, and fulfilling? Welcome to From Chair to CEO—the podcast for ambitious salon owners, hairstylists, and beauty professionals who are ready to lead with intention, grow with strategy, and live with purpose.
I’m Amanda Smearman—salon and spa owner, mentor, mom, and soon-to-be your favorite business bestie. After building two thriving beauty brands from the ground up, I’m here to share what actually works behind the scenes—from leadership and pricing to team culture, marketing, and mindset.
Each week, we’ll dive into real conversations about salon ownership, building a booked-and-balanced life, leading a team with heart (and boundaries), and stepping into your role as a true CEO—without burning out or losing your spark.
Whether you're behind the chair or building an empire, this podcast will give you the tools, encouragement, and tough love you need to grow.
💬 Business.
💬 Leadership.
💬 Life.
Let’s talk about all of it.
Episodes
12 episodes
Why Your Team Isn't Growing
If your team isn’t growing — no matter how many meetings, goals, or pep talks you have — this episode is for you.In Episode 2, I shares the truth most salon owners overlook: your team’s growth problem probably isn’t a people pro...
3 Ways to Fill Gaps in Your Books This Week
Slow week? Empty gaps on the schedule? Instead of panicking or posting another “We have openings!” story that doesn’t convert — let’s fix it.In this quick minisode, I’m breaking down three simple, proven ways to fill those holes in your ...
Glow Back: The Power of Reinvention in Your Salon
Is your salon feeling a little… stale? Maybe clients are in and out, your team seems flat, or your marketing hasn’t been updated in years. If that hits home, it’s time for a Glow Back.In this episode, I’m kicking off Season 2 of...
The 3 Clients You’re Serving — And What Each One Actually Needs
Not all clients are created equal — and treating them like they are could be the reason your rebooking is down, your retail isn’t moving, and your client retention is stuck.In this episode, I’m breaking down the three most common buy...
The Consultation Is the Key: Why This Step Changes Everything
Think consultations are just about asking what the client wants? Think again. In this episode, I’m sharing why the consultation is the most powerful tool in your business—not just for client results, but for retention, retail, boundari...
Stop Getting in Your Own Way — Self-Sabotage in the Salon Industry
Are you unknowingly holding yourself back in your business? In this episode, Amanda pulls back the curtain on the subtle ways self-sabotage shows up in the beauty industry — from overbooking and undercharging to perfectionism and fear of being ...
You Can't Scale What You Can't Track
You're bringing in money… but where is it all going? In this episode, we’re cutting through the revenue smoke and mirrors and talking about what really matters: knowing your numbers. I’m diving into the budgeting systems I use as a salon owner,...
The Value is in the Experience: Why Clients Do Pay More
In this episode of From Chair to CEO, Amanda breaks down why great work alone isn't enough to justify premium pricing in the beauty industry. Clients today are seeking more than just results—they're seeking connection, comfort, and con...
Pricing Isn’t Personal—It’s a System
Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt guilty about raising your prices 🙋♀️In this episode, I’m breaking down why pricing should never be based on emotion—and how to build a system that supports your growth, your team, and your business goals...
Why 'Charge Your Worth' Set Us Back—and What to Do Instead
Why "Charge Your Worth" Set Us Back—and What to Do InsteadThe phrase “charge your worth” became a post-pandemic mantra in the beauty industry—but what if it’s not the advice we actually needed?In this episode, I unpack how ...
The Secret to Client Retention: Crafting a 5-Star Experience from Start to Finish
Want more rebookings, better reviews, and guests who can’t stop talking about their visit? In this episode, I’m sharing how to create a client experience so seamless and personal, it keeps your books full and your team thriving.From the ...
Episode 1: From Behind the Chair to CEO – What You Can Expect + Why I’m Here
Welcome to the very first episode of From Chair to CEO—the podcast for ambitious stylists and salon owners who are ready to grow their business, lead with confidence, and live a life that feels just as good as it looks on Instagram.